Stephen Robinson admits Aberdeen were nervy in their win over Kilmarnock
Aberdeen boss Stephen Robinson admitted his side were nervy in their 1-0 William Hill Premiership win over Kilmarnock, but is pleased with the progress shown since taking over the reins at Pittodrie last month.
The Dons opened up an eight-point lead over the visitors, who still occupy the relegation play-off spot, thanks to Afeez Aremu’s goal in the opening minute, although the Dons rode their luck at times, with their crossbar being struck three times.
Robinson said: “It’s a huge three points. We started the game really well and I think for 15-20 minutes we were excellent, and then nerves set in. We started doing things that were very positive – playing forward, playing down the sides, and then we stopped doing that.
“What’s not been said about this Aberdeen side for a long time is that they showed great character, they defended their box when they needed to, they didn’t concede from set plays, and it’s another clean sheet.
“We’re doing the basics right. Hard to beat, hard to break down, everybody knows what they’re doing. Can we be better? Of course we can. We can be better on the ball, we can be more creative and play positive football more.
“It was a superb touch from Stuart Armstrong to set up the goal, and it was a really composed finish.”
Kilmarnock boss Neil McCann, while disappointed with the result, was proud of his side’s performance, saying: “I’m very proud of how we played the game considering an early setback which continually plagues us.
“We spoke about having a smart start and don’t give Aberdeen a lift, which is exactly what we did, and to rub salt in the wounds we lose Jamie Brandon to injury as well.
“I felt we grew into the game. We adjusted to the pressure, we continued to play, created lots of chances and we hit the woodwork a good three or four times.
“We changed our shape today, and as a team we never looked as if we felt sorry for ourselves. It’s pleasing that we continued to push, but unfortunately we were unable to get the goal we deserved.
“We’ve a way we want to play, and I’ve no complaints about how the boys applied themselves.”